Prednisone

What is Prednisone?

Prednisone is a steroid/corticosteroid and is used to provide relief for inflamed areas of the body. It is similar to the steroid hormones produced naturally by the adrenal gland. It reduces swelling, itching, redness and allergic reactions, and can also be used to treat severe allergies, skin problems,asthma,arthritis and many other conditions. It is available only via prescription.

Common side effects

Cortisones are remarkably safe for the majority of people when used for short periods of several weeks or less. Some people taking cortisone for brief periods have no unpleasant side effects, tough increased appetite and disturbances of sleep patterns are common.

Weight gain from fluid retention or changes in mood (usually nervousness, trouble sleeping and restlessness) can occur. In addition, indigestion can be a problem. These side effects are generally minor and disappear when the course is ended however. Nevertheless there have been rare cases of people becoming psychotic or depressed, or of developing osteonecrosis of the hip while undergoing short treatments of Prednisone.

Internal cortisones increase blood sugar and pressure and thus may worsen diabetes and hypertension. They may also worsen or activate peptic ulcers. Unfortunately, when cortisones are taken for long periods serious side effects are common. As a result cortisone treatment is only used when a disease is threatening or seriously affecting a patient’s life. For example when cortisones are taken daily for a long time the skin can thin and bruise very easily. Furthermore, Prednisone can cause glaucoma in people who have never had it before, and people with glaucoma should not take Prednisone without asking their eye doctor beforehand.

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